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A-League star Al Hassan Toure has revealed the sliding doors moment that saw his family move to Australia from war-torn Guinea.
They arrived on local shores in November of 2004 after being granted a new opportunity in life, but it easily could have been Canada.
'It was pure luck that we ended up in Australia,' the highly-touted Sydney FC recruit told the Daily Mail.
'As refugees (from Liberia living in Guinea), we didn't have a choice, the government decided for us.
'I don't remember it well, I was only four years old. But as a family, we are so happy we were moved to Adelaide.'
The striker - who was born in a mud hut in West Africa - loved growing up in South Australia, mainly due to the sense of community.
Sydney FC recruit Al Hassan Toure has revealed the sliding doors moment that saw his family move to Australia from war-torn Guinea
The striker - who remarkably was delivered in a mud hut in West Africa - is ready to light up the A-League with Sydney FC
Along with his younger brothers, Socceroos star Mohamed Toure and Young Socceroos forward Musa Toure, it didn't take long for the trio to stand out on football pitches.
All three went onto represent Adelaide United in the A-League, before going in different directions as they chased individual football journeys.
Mohamed and Musa Toure both are currently on the books of Danish club Randers FC - but their older sibling isn't remotely envious.
His own spells at Şanlıurfaspor in Turkey followed by French club AC Ajaccio and FC Tulsa in the US could prove to be invaluable, with the Sky Blues star adamant he is now a far better player following previous stints in the A-League with Adelaide and Macarthur.
'I really enjoyed my time abroad, but of course, it came with its challenges,' Toure said.
'There were positives and negatives, mainly how I used to get lonely and the language barrier.
'When Sydney FC reached out (to his agent) I was happy to come back... they are a big club, and I liked the 'project' (coach) Ufuk Talay is working towards.
'I think we will surprise this season, our aim is to play entertaining football.
Toure, 25, has previously caught the eye playing for Adelaide and Macarthur FC (pictured) in the A-League
Toure's electrifying pace and ability to beat players will see him become a crowd favourite this season
'I've loved working with experienced guys like Joe (Lolley) and Rhyan Grant...and some of our young players, they have been impressive.'
Toure will experience a full-circle moment on Friday night when the Sky Blues tackle Adelaide on the road.
In the stands will be his proud family and friends - and Toure is ready to entertain.
'I'm really looking forward to it, I'll always be thankful for the opportunities the club gave me,' he said.
'I actually made my A-League debut (for Adelaide) against Sydney FC, so it's funny how things turn out.
'Now is my chance to repay the faith Sydney have shown in me.'
